By PineappleandCheese (Written 3/2/2020) It might feel weird, or inconvenient, or out of place. In the midst of the current situation, hundreds of thousands of churches have now been forced to forego hosting their regular meetings in exchange for the alternative. Every week, churches are holding online worship services for their stuck-at-home members. It might feel awkward, or distant, or less engaging. Many will long for the time they can resume their regular meetings and fellowship with God’s people at their local church. For them, this is only a temporary season in a lifetime of mentoring, fellowship, and spiritual growth. But for the 6,000,000 Deaf believers (only 2% of the entire Deaf population) around the world, this is everyday life. As one of the most unreached people groups, the Deaf have limited access to shepherding and fellowship. Especially those who live outside of the U.S.
Some might be fortunate to live close enough to a church with a Deaf pastor. Some might live fairly close to be able to visit semi-regularly. Some might have a church with an interpreter where they will receive an indirect and, most likely, incomplete message. Some, quite frankly, have never been told at all about the resources that exist. However, for many, they do not have a ministering Deaf church in their area at all. Because of this, they receive their teaching via live stream, pre-recorded videos, books, or not at all. Church is complicated. Yes, it might seem fun now to “go to church” in your pajamas and breakfast in your lap. But for those who are typically already socially isolated, it’s not fun. Interaction is at the heart of Deaf culture. We need each other to learn and grow. Thankfully, in today’s world, it is much easier to do that with modern technology. But, as you might have noticed or probably will notice within the next couple weeks, it’s not the same. So, thank you. Thank you so everyone who is working so diligently to minister and grow that 2%. Thank you to all of the Deaf pastors who invest so many hours shepherding their flocks. Thank you to the Deaf churches (The Table Church - C&MA, The Bridge Deaf Fellowship, First Baptist Deaf Congregation of Alexandria) who come along side to support the ministry. And thank you to all the other Deaf ministries (Caribbean Christian Center for the Deaf, Deaf Missions, Deaf Bible Society, YWAM Deaf World, Bison Christian Fellowship - Gallaudet) who strive to make the bible accessible so that Jesus may be known. For any of you who are new to all of this "distant learning" stuff, keep us in your thoughts during this time. While we are all His hands and feet, God is on the move all the more. If you feel led, consider partnering with your local Deaf ministry or donating to an organization which serves the Deaf both locally and/or internationally. But, most importantly, pray. Pray for the Deaf community world wide. Pray for peace and comfort. Pray for God’s provision and presence to be on each and every one of his children. Pray for the leaders He has put in place and the ministries He has established.
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